Latin America

Famous for its steak, tango and football, Argentina is the eighth-largest country in the world full of wildlife, adventure and culture, with an immense terrain ranging from glacial lakes and mountain regions to the fertile plains of Pampas.

When to go: Summer (Dec - Feb)

With its climate, diversity, culture, wildlife and natural wonders, Argentina is much more than the large cattle ranch some may think it to be. It definitely won’t leave you disappointed. Just remember to leave plenty of space in your suitcase for souvenirs. Find out more about seeing Argentina with Luxury Gold Vacations

Brazil is the land of samba and the birthplace of carnival. It is also the largest country in South America and fifth largest in the world, where kissing strangers is customary and natural environments are found on an epic scale.

When to go: Summer (Jan - Mar)

As the Land of Samba title dictates, rhythm is king in Brazil and there’s no prejudice when it comes to variety. From the jazz tones of choro and the romantic style of bossa nova, to the carnival-styled frevo and the smooth dance style of samba, the music alone is reason enough to visit Brazil and you’re guaranteed to find your feet tapping along at some point during your stay. Find out more about seeing Brazil with Luxury Gold Vacations.

Chile is a country of natural beauty and contrast. Lined by the towering peaks of the Andes, it stretches down half of the west coast of South America, boasting the world’s driest desert to the north, a Mediterranean climate in the centre and a Lake District to the south, with Antarctica on the horizon.

When to go: Summer (Dec - Feb)

Worth the short trip north, with its rich cultural legacy and unique architecture, it’s easy to see why the hilly seaport of Valparaiso is nicknamed the ‘Jewel of the Pacific’. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered Chile’s cultural capital and boasts a labyrinth of beautiful streets and picturesque alleyways punctuated by numerous ‘elevators’ on the steep hillsides. The naturally occurring amphitheatre-like form and vibrant colour of this charming colonial city will guarantee you remember it for a long time to come. Find out more about seeing Chile with Luxury Gold Vacations.

It’s easy to see why eco-friendly Costa Rica has been rated the happiest country on earth by the Happy Planet Index. Situated in tropical Central America, it is home to markedly friendly people, vast rain forests, sandy beaches, exotic wildlife and volcanoes.

When to go: Summer (Dec - Apr)

It’s easy to see why eco-friendly Costa Rica has been rated the happiest country on earth by the Happy Planet Index. Situated in tropical Central America, it is home to markedly friendly people, vast rain forests, sandy beaches, exotic wildlife and volcanoes. Find out more about seeing Costa Rica with Luxury Gold Vacations.

Think Galapagos Islands and an image of giant tortoises will likely come to mind; the most famous being Lonesome George - the last Pinta Island tortoise who sadly became extinct in 2012. Abundantly rich with unique flora and fauna, Charles Darwin’s visit to the islands in 1835 led to his observations of the natural adaptation differences in Galapagos finches, mockingbirds and tortoises (depending on the island they inhabited), which consequently shaped his Theory of Evolution. Aside from tortoises and Darwinian theories, the Galapagos Islands’ location in the Pacific Ocean and close proximity to the equator, also make it famous for having 12 hours of daylight, every day of the year. Galapagos

Within the mountains of Peru lies the hub of the Inca Empire, teamed with Spanish colonial towns and sensational views of the Andes. The nation’s colourful culture is reflected in a tradition of festivals, handicrafts, music and dance.